The Philadelphia 76ers carved their names into the record books of franchise history, shattering a 63-year-old record in a spectacular showdown against the struggling Toronto Raptors as they romped to a resounding 121-11 victory.
The Wells Fargo Center was rocking as the Sixers put forth a powerhouse offensive effort last seen in 1961. Led by the triumphant trio of Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey, and Tobias Harris, the team not only secured a crucial win but also etched a remarkable chapter in the annals of 76ers’ history.
A historic offensive symphony
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
As Tobias Harris and Tyrese Maxey led the way with Joel Embiid in a display of offensive mastery, the Sixers continued to take turns using their bodies as battering rams against the Raptors’ defense. Each member of the dynamic trio tallied an impressive 30+ points, a feat accomplished only twice before in franchise history; and first since 1961.
The first trio in franchise history to each record 30+ points in the same game since 1961. pic.twitter.com/8JnXvl6ltZ
— StatMuse (@statmuse) December 23, 2023
The last time this occurred was an unforgettable scene in 1961, when Dick Barnett, Hal Greer, and Dolph Schayes did it. The Sixers and their historic offensive onslaught simply overwhelmed the Raptors.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Tyrese Maxey displayed his scoring touch with finesse, while Tobias Harris put on a much more versatile performance and did not just score the ball himself, but also made some important defensive plays. On this historic night for the Philadelphia franchise, their synergy on the court added an extra dimension of excitement.
Embiid breaking records amidst ankle injury stint
Despite facing trouble in the form of an ankle injury, Joel Embiid continued to personify resilience and dominance. This 31-point performance was heroic, pushing Embiid’s streak of 30 points and 10 rebounds to an impressive 13 games. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s 30+ points and 10+ rebounds streak in his championship season of 1971-72 was topped, and Embiid made history with a level of consistency unprecedented in the NBA.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
In the second quarter, he came back with ceaseless determination, even after being seriously injured in the first. The reigning NBA MVP overcame physical discomfort and proved his playmaking skills with nine assists and defensive abilities with four steals. Embiid’s courageous heart and brilliant play gave this historic win a special resonance for the Sixers, leaving the delighted fans of each team convinced that they were witness to something amazing.
Watch this story: “Kawhi Leonard disregards career best stretch for a bigger picture”